Alvaro Benito evaluated Real Madrid’s recent performances against Liverpool and Rayo Vallecano on Cadena SER, focusing on structural and tactical issues he sees as ongoing under Xabi Alonso.
Benito argued that Madrid have struggled to control matches when opponents adjust pressing triggers. “The team becomes stretched too easily. When the first press is broken, they defend too deep and without compactness,” he stated.
He highlighted midfield spacing as a specific concern. “The distances between the lines are too large. The midfielders are not moving together, and transitions expose the back line.”
Benito also commented on player adaptation to Xabi’s positional structure. “Some players are still thinking instead of reacting. That slows circulation and makes the team predictable in buildup.”
However, he did not frame the issues as systemic failure. Benito emphasized that the model requires repetition and time. “The idea is clear. The challenge is execution under pressure. This is a process.”
See More:
* [Real Madrid CF: Coach](/coach)
* [Real Madrid CF: Players](/real-madrid-cf-players)